Project Description

This project targets the development and commercialization of a software platform designed to optimize the design and operation of data center cooling systems, dramatically reducing energy consumption. Data centers account for approximately 2% of electricity usage in the U.S., with nearly half of that attributed to cooling. As digital infrastructure continues to grow, the need for sustainable, high-efficiency cooling technologies becomes increasingly critical. The proposed software solution offers energy savings of up to 70%, presenting a compelling opportunity for reducing both operational costs and environmental impact. The global data center cooling market is expected to expand significantly—from $14.85 billion in 2022 to $30.31 billion by 2030—highlighting a strong and growing commercial opportunity. By enabling more efficient and intelligent cooling strategies, the technology supports carbon reduction goals and aligns with broader efforts to mitigate climate change.

Technology Description and Development Path:

The software is built on a robust, equation-based modeling framework tailored for complex systems, enabling accurate and efficient simulation, control, and optimization of data center cooling operations. Key features include:

• Automated system modeling and optimization workflows using a comprehensive library of prebuilt system templates.

• User-friendly interface for streamlined deployment and usability across technical and non-technical users.

• Machine learning integration to dynamically optimize control settings based on real-time outdoor weather data and IT load conditions.

• Built-in compliance tools to ensure adherence to current data center energy standards and codes.

• Advanced fault detection algorithms capable of identifying both critical and non-critical system faults, supporting predictive maintenance and increased reliability.

The requested GAP funding will support development of a functional prototype, validation in real-world settings, and refinement of the commercial strategy.